The Penguins concluded their 2024-25 season with a victory, defeating the Washington Capitals 5-2 at PPG Paints Arena. The match marked a notable chapter in NHL history with Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin achieving remarkable milestones. Crosby surpassed Wayne Gretzky for the most point-per-game seasons, totaling 20, while Ovechkin set a new all-time goals record.
Commenting on their achievements, Crosby stated, “It’s pretty rare that you go head-to-head like that… it’s something that is great for the game of hockey – but it’s something that I think there’s mutual respect there as well.” The Penguins honored Ovechkin with a tribute video, with fans applauding him in acknowledgment.
Both players excelled in the game, with Ovechkin scoring a power-play goal, reaching 897, and Crosby attaining his 33rd goal and 91st point of the season. Discussing the significance of the two players, Bryan Rust said, “Two guys who, from my point of view, almost saved the league… Seeing them both on the ice tonight after two huge milestones for each of them this year, I think it’s a really cool.”
Rust himself reached a personal achievement by scoring twice, pushing his season total to 31 goals, a new career high. Reflecting on his accomplishment, Rust remarked, “I can’t tell you I thought I’d ever score 30 goals… But it’s cool. It’s proof that I’ve been working hard.”
Penguins Coach Mike Sullivan praised Rust’s development, noting that his evolution as a player has been remarkable. Sullivan stated, “He deserves so much credit for his passion for the game, his work ethic, to put the time in every day to develop his overall game. It’s remarkable what he’s done with his career.”
Ville Koivunen, a recent addition from the American Hockey League, shone with two assists, extending his point streak to five games, the longest by a Pittsburgh rookie since 2019. Highlighting Koivunen’s impact, Sullivan said, “That can be very intimidating for a young player… He’s a great kid. He loves hockey. He’s got really good offensive instincts.”
